The 8 best walks around Guildford and the surrounding area

Looking to explore more of Guildford and the surrounding area? Look no further! We’ve got the very best walks around Guildford – get some exercise and discover more of the stunning countryside on offer around the town. 

Whether you’re a local or just visiting for a few days, these walks will provide you with a new perspective on the historic town. A treat throughout the seasons, you really are spoilt for choice with the diverse options available! Here’s our Seymours Guildford team’s choice of the best walks in the area that you absolutely must try…

#1 St Martha’s Hill

With some of the best views of Surrey available, St Martha’s Hill is certainly a walk around Guildford not to be missed! After a moderate climb up the rolling hills, you’ll come to the iconic 12th-century St Martha’s Church (rebuilt to incorporate the original architectural features in 1848 after it fell into ruin). 

The church is believed to have been built as a beacon to assist travellers or encourage pilgrimage to Canterbury or Winchester Cathedrals. Take in the breathtaking views across Tillingbourne Valley as you hike across this historic landscape. So, be sure to bring your camera to snap up a few pictures! And, why not try this walk at sunset and capture the incredible colours from the perfect viewpoint? Just bring a flashlight to assist you on your way back down. 

How long will it take to complete? 1 hour, yet this can be easily extended

Difficulty? Easy to moderate

#2 Through the looking glass

Did you know, author Lewis Carroll frequented Guildford with his sisters from 1868? Alice in Wonderland had actually been published 3 years prior to his first visit, yet it was likely he was not yet recognised as the author. 

Tread the same passages as the renowned writer as you explore Guildford’s local countryside. On your walk, be sure to look out for statues themed around the famous children’s book – you’ll also be able to pay homage should you wish to climb the tough uphill to The Mount, just on the outskirts of town. 

Take a pit stop along the way at one of our team’s favourite spots, The March Hare – appropriately named after the white rabbit, largely featuring in Carroll’s tale. One of the best walks around Guildford, it doesn’t come much better than this scenic route filled with iconic photo opportunities throughout. 

How long will it take to complete? Roughly 2 hours

Difficulty? Relatively gentle with some steeper sections

#3 Whitmoor Common

Whitmoor is well worth a visit at any time of the year. It’s a hidden gem nestled between Woking and Guildford that many locals have yet to discover. Whilst the Surrey Hills tend to be a go-to for many, this heathland walking spot is a fantastic alternative with great quality paths for all the family to hike along. 

Keep an eye out for some of the wildlife here – with 19 species of dragonfly, woodpeckers, goldfinches and even the occasional deer spotted in the stunning woodland plain. Adventure lovers are sure to love this particular area, plus it’s a great walk for the kids as you can take a stroller comfortably along the path. 

How long will it take to complete? Approximately 1 and half hours

Difficulty? Largely flat

#4 Hidden Hindhead

Admire the autumnal colours across the Devil’s Punch Bowl as you traverse along the eastern side of the valley. On a clear day, you’ll even be able to spot the London skyline! This walk offers you the chance to reconnect with nature – a tranquil escape from busy town life. 

Easily lost? Not to worry! This route is clearly sign-posted so you won’t end up lost in the middle of the woodland area. Instead, you can enjoy this moderate walk, taking in the views and forgetting the day-to-day stresses in life. And, see if you can spot the recently discovered original milestone directing pilgrims towards Godalming just after the famous Sailor’s Stone. 

How long will it take to complete? 2 hours

Difficulty? Easy to moderate

#5 Winkworth Arboretum

Fans of botanical gardens should definitely pay a visit to Winkworth Arboretum, nestled in the Surrey Hills; it’s a step away from the usual trodden paths of Box Hill we all know so well. And, why not treat yourself to a delicious treat at the boathouse? With stunning views of the lake, come rain or shine. 

This is a great option for all the family, with walks suitable for all ages and abilities. To help you find your way, the team have marked three routes: a blue ‘Access for All’, a yellow ‘Taste of Winkworth’ and red ‘Challenging’ walk. Just keep an eye out for your chosen colour post and discover over 1000 shrubs and flowers along the trail.

Or, try a free guided walk. Available every second Wednesday of the month at 2pm and every last Friday at 11am, you’ll learn more of the splendid natural area from Alan and Peter. 

How long will it take to complete? Dependent on your chosen route, up to 3 hours

Difficulty? Varied, look out for the colours!

#6 The Polesden Lacey

Polesden is rich in history and provides breathtaking views over the Surrey Hills – in fact, there’s a 1,400-acre estate dating back to Roman times for you to explore! The challenging ‘big walk’ takes you into the very heart of Ranmore Common. If you’ve lived in the Guildford area for some time, you may well be familiar with the Denbies Vineyard – and, on this challenging hike you’ll see across this stunning hillside. 

Grabbing your walking boots and let your adventurous side out as you explore the route taking you past two working farms, ancient woodland, historic farmstead and rolling downland. And, if the full route doesn’t appeal, why not try the shorter version across the estate? 

How long will it take to complete? Around 2 and a half hours

Difficulty? Moderate

#7 Claygate, Ashtead Common, Prince’s Coverts

Yet another hidden gem can be found on this circular route! The best walks around Guildford tend to center around the Surrey Hills and therefore, even locals tend to not know about the Prince’s Converts nature reserve. But, this is a particularly pleasant area to discover on a late summer’s day. 

Appreciate impressive oak trees hundreds of years old as you pass through this secluded woodland. On your route, you’ll even pass Chessington World of Adventures, however, the route generally avoids tarmaced paths so bring those walking boots!

How long will it take to complete? Roughly 3 hours

Difficulty? A flat, easy loop around the woodland

#8 Tilford

Love to be by the water? This one’s for you! Taking in Frensham Great and Little Pond alongside the River Wey, there’s an abundance of fresh-water loving wildlife to discover. Plus, why not cool down with a quick dip in the picturesque beach at Frensham Great Pond?  

Whilst the walk is relatively easy, it does feature several steady climbs and descents making for an interesting and engaging hike through the woodland. Cross bridges, kissing gates and livestock fields on this adventure, ideal for when you are wanting to work up an appetite. We love this one for a Sunday, making an afternoon roast all the more necessary!

How long will it take to complete? Approximately 4 hours

Difficulty? Easy

The best walks around Guildford: Why our Seymours team love the area

You really are spoilt for choice in Guildford and the surrounding area. Whether you are looking for a new adventure for the whole family or just somewhere a little different to walk the dog, you can find it here. As Guildford’s locals ourselves, our team certainly know the area well and love sharing their latest discoveries with residents both new and old. 

Have you tried one of these routes, or have we missed your number 1 choice? Why not let us know your favourite!

Read more on our autumn Surrey events.

We know how important it is showcasing the area when it comes to selling your property – in fact, it can be the difference between a successful sale and your home sitting empty for months on end. That’s why all of our employees are locals themselves, highlighting not only the key features of the area but also sharing little secrets house hunters will certainly appreciate. 

If you’re looking to move to the area or have a property for sale, speak to the expert estate agents that can secure you property peace of mind. If you’d like free market advice or need an instant property valuation you can trust, get in touch with the team at Seymours Guildford on 01483 576833 or email us directly here.